Chinese President Xi Jinping is set to begin a four-day visit to Russia on Wednesday, offering a key diplomatic win for President Vladimir Putin amid global isolation over the war in Ukraine. The visit aims to reinforce the "no limits" strategic partnership between Beijing and Moscow, with several new agreements expected to be signed.
China, locked in a trade war with the U.S., remains Russia's top trading partner, purchasing vast amounts of Russian oil and gas. This economic support has helped Moscow weather Western sanctions. Xi and Putin continue to present a united front against U.S. global dominance, advocating for a multipolar world order.
Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova highlighted the visit as one of the year's most significant in bilateral relations, signaling shared global priorities. Xi is scheduled to hold talks with Putin on Thursday and attend Friday’s Victory Day military parade on Moscow’s Red Square, commemorating the Soviet victory over Nazi Germany. Chinese troops will participate, underscoring deepening military ties.
Despite U.S. pressure and Ukraine's plea for countries to avoid the event, Xi will attend, reflecting Beijing’s alignment with Russia. China has criticized the U.S. for fueling the Ukraine conflict and called for peace talks, while the Kremlin accuses Ukraine of threatening parade security—claims Kyiv denies.
Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov emphasized the summit’s symbolism, asserting it demonstrates Russia’s growing global influence. Discussions will include energy cooperation and the proposed Power of Siberia 2 pipeline. Putin is expected to visit China later this year.
The Xi-Putin meeting underscores the deepening alliance between two major powers confronting Western influence, with implications for global diplomacy, energy markets, and the Ukraine conflict.